HOW WE SUPPORT MENTAL WELLBEING
At Northway, we start every week with a Check In circle in classes which is an opportunity for all children to connect with their teacher first thing on a Monday morning. It is vital childre feel heard and that their voice is valued and this gives every child the chance to connect to start their week. Before going home on a Friday afternoon, classes hold a Check Out circle which rounds off the week and gives children the chance to share ahead of their weekend and for the class community to connect together.
Listening School
Adults in school are always available to talk individually with children when they need it. Each class has a #wishmyteacherknew area, in which children are able to send notes to the adults in class or arrange a time to talk. This is used to share positive news and also a time to share any worries. Every week we also hold a ‘Listening School’ session in which children can pop into a designated classroom to chat to a teacher. It is a chilled space where pupils can chat and share their thoughts and feelings. Sharing and talking about how we feel is a key message we share.
Learning about Wellbeing
Our PSHE curriculum is very well developed and built into this is our One Decision units. These cover all aspects of PSHE and relationship education and give children the chance to explore scenarios and decide on an option – what would they do? Having the chance to see both the positive and negative outcomes really helps children to understand and make informed choices in their own lives.
Feeling like you’re part of a community, significantly improves your mental health. This is something that is at the heart of our ethos. Our school teams, linked to our school values, really help our children to feel part of something bigger than themselves –to feel part of something is a really special feeling! We find as many ways as possible to build our community spirit in our children so they feel that ‘buzz’ from helping others such as: our buddy class work, Y6 prefects, School Council, Digital Leaders, Art Champs, PE Leads, Team Captains, History Heroes. Not to mention the whole school events we hold to bring us together - these help us to feel like one big family!
Mental wellbeing is at the core of what we do and we know the importance of all working together to support children to feel happy, safe and supported. If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s mental wellbeing, please do not hesitate in contacting your child’s class teacher via the school office or admin email.